Westport News - Editorial-"Fund-Raising In A Dangerous Time

Westport News - Editorial: "Fund-Raising In A Dangerous Time

W ith natural disasters, an economic downturn, the 'war on terror' and government cutbacks, some nonprofits may find themselves scrambling to meet increased demands and generate funds in a difficult fund-raising climate. Similar scenarios played out after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, and, more recently, after the South Asian tsunami.

Hurricane Katrina was a compelling event. The Chronicle of Philanthropy [Sept. 28, 2005] reported that more than $1.4 billion has already been donated to the hurricane relief effort. The American Red Cross has said it expects to spend $2 billion on the Katrina relief effort.

While the response so far is heartwarming, the downside is that other charities, particular smaller ones, may have difficulty reaching their fund-raising goals as a result. The larger charities can probably get the word out that they are struggling but that task may be more daunting for smaller groups with less wherewithal. With this year's major fund-raising season coming up, some of the effects may not yet be visible."